How to Train Your Cat to Use a Cat Flap

Many cat owners can relate to the feeling of being woken up in the late at night to let their pets out, only for them to change their minds and want to go back in a few minutes. A cat flap can solve this issue.
It operates by scanning the microchip of your cat's microchip to allow only authorized cats in and block access to other cats. A cat flap has a variety of benefits, such as:
Peace of mind
Cat flaps help keep your cat safe and secure by permitting it to move around whenever they want. They can remain in the dark if they prefer, which reduces their chances of being attacked by wild cats or other cats that might be hunting in the night. Many of these animals carry diseases that can be fatal to your cat, and so keeping them in at night will stop them from getting sick.
Conventional cat flaps can also allow other cats out and in - this is a big worry for some pet owners who do not want neighbour's cats harassing their pets, marking their house as their own, eating their food or engaging in fights with them. A microchip-encoded cat flap can keep other cats out by reading your cat's unique microchip code and unlocking only for your cat is the only cat to be able to enter and exit.
It also gives you peace of mind if you are away from home, like when you are on vacation or go out at night. It connects to a hub and app that monitors your pet's movements into and out of your home and enables you to control when they are allowed out and in via an intelligent curfew that you set. You can also share the app access with family members and friends so that they can keep an eye on your pet while you are away.
A microchip cat flap that has a magnetic or infrared collar key will provide additional security by allowing your cat to use the flap only when their collar is within a specific distance of it. It is important to spend time teaching your cat to use the flap. This is particularly important if it's not used to using one. Begin by leaving the flap wide open so they can be able to see the world outside and smell it. By distributing a favorite toy or a treat on either side of the flap you can encourage and reward your cat each time it puts its head through. Once they're comfortable using the flap, you can gradually close it.
Safety
There are a variety of cat flaps available with a variety of features. You should choose a cat-flap that's the appropriate size for your pet, so it can be able to enter and out without difficulty. You should also search for a durable material that can withstand paws, claws and rain.
Certain cat flaps can be locked in a variety of ways to protect your home and keep burglars out. You can lock them manually by using a peg which fits into the lock, or you can choose microchip cat doors that allow registered cats to enter your home. Cat flaps can be easily programmed and are simple to set up, making them ideal for homes with multiple pets.
The main benefit of microchip cat flaps is that they permit you to track your pets movements around the house, even when you're away from home. Some models have intelligent technology that allows you to track your pet's' movements when you walk through the door or window through an app on your phone.
This is useful in case you're worried that your cat may wander too far from home or are worried about them having access to dangerous neighbourhood animals. You can check the status of your pet through the app and remotely lock their cat flap should they do get into trouble.
You can also opt for a four-way manual locking system that gives you more options to control who can go in and out. This is especially useful if you have an aggressive cat or an older cat that might struggle with a traditional flap. This method can be used to keep your pets from entering your home when they are sick or it's raining outside.
Other pet owners choose flaps that read the microchip of their pet and only allow entry if the microchip is registered, blocking other cats. These systems can be more expensive than other flaps for cats, but they are an effective way to prevent your neighbour's cats getting into your house.
Convenience
Unrestricted outside access can help to keep your cat physically and mentally stimulated. It can also reduce the number of toileting accidents that occur inside the home. Many cats are also drawn by the smells of herbs like cat thyme (catmint), catnip and clary sage. They can be put on either side of the flap if they are still unsure.
If you have a tiny hinged panel that can be affixed to a window or door, it's simple enough to teach your cat to use it by placing treats on the opposite side of the flap and encouraging them through it by using their favourite food. It's not easy to get them through the first time but once they've done it start, they should continue to follow the habit.
A magnetic cat flap can also be utilized. It recognizes the microchip of your pet and allows it to enter. These are more expensive, however they work by putting magnets on your pet's neck to open the flap. These are a great choice for households with multiple cats to stop pets that are stray from entering the property.
Other models come with different locking options. You can set it to either closed or open with an exit only, or only for entrance. They are helpful for those who need to regulate when your cat comes and goes particularly at night, or when you're away. They can be helpful in situations where you're away from home for a long period of time and want to be sure your cat is safe.
You can also opt for a smart cat-flap that is connected to your smartphone, and controlled via an app. This lets you control the access and exit of your cat in a matter of minutes. These flaps are more difficult to install than traditional cat flaps, however they provide greater security and are safer for your pets. upvc door panels cat flap of these smart flaps even come with video monitoring and are accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
Training
If you have a cat or kitten who has never used a flap for their cat, it could take a while to get them used to the idea of being outside on their own. Based on their personality, some are naturally curious and adapt to the new environment quickly. Some cats will require to be gently encouraged and taught to open the flap using their paws or head. Observing them from the inside and outside can help you work out what methods you can use to train them however, be aware that all cats are different.
Instead of forcing your cat to go through the flap, you should try to encourage them with treats. Place an item on the other side of the flap (but not so much that it is visible to it) and then prop the flap open. Your cat should be called through the flap while maintaining a calm, positive voice. This will allow your cat to learn how to go through the flap by noticing that it takes them closer to the reward on the opposite side of the flap.
When your cat begins to take a lick or use their head to open it, you are able to let them roam around the outside and have fun in their new freedom. It is essential to keep an eye on your cat to ensure they are secure outside. Some cats could be vulnerable to the weather or other animals, like neighboring cats.
If you are unsure whether your cat is in a position to handle the outdoors, you can keep them inside at night, or leave the flap open so they always have access to their litter box, puzzle feeders and toys. You can make sure that your cat gets the exercise and stimulation it needs and provide them with a way to escape any stressful situations that may arise in the home. They will also have the security of knowing that they are able to return home if they want to.